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When Does the IRS Start Accepting Tax Returns in 2026? As the new year approaches, many taxpayers are wondering: when does the IRS start accepting tax returns in 2026? This refers to the filing of 2025 tax returns, which typically begins in late January. While the IRS hasn’t officially announced the exact date as of December 31, 2025, historical patterns and expert estimates provide a clear picture. In this SEO-optimized guide, we’ll cover the expected start date for the 2026 tax season, historical trends, preparation tips, and a refund calendar to help you plan ahead.
Expected IRS Tax Filing Start Date for 2026
Based on the IRS’s usual schedule, the agency is expected to begin accepting and processing 2025 tax returns as early as January 26, 2026. This date falls on a Monday, aligning with the IRS’s preference for starting the filing season on weekdays to ensure smooth operations. However, new tax laws, such as those introduced under recent legislation like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, could potentially cause a minor delay of one to two weeks.
The official announcement from the IRS typically comes in early January, so keep an eye on IRS.gov for updates. Until then, this estimated date is based on consistent patterns from previous years and guidance from tax professionals.
Historical IRS Filing Season Start Dates
To better understand the 2026 tax season start, let’s look at when the IRS has historically begun accepting returns. The start date has varied slightly but generally falls in the last week of January:
| Tax Year (Filed In) | Start Date |
|---|---|
| 2021 (2022) | January 24, 2022 |
| 2022 (2023) | January 23, 2023 |
| 2024 (2025) | January 27, 2025 |
| 2018 (2019) | January 28, 2019 |
These dates show a trend toward Mondays in late January, supporting the January 26, 2026, estimate for the upcoming season.
How to Prepare for the 2026 Tax Filing Season
Even though the exact start date isn’t confirmed, the IRS encourages taxpayers to get ready now to avoid last-minute stress. Here are some key preparation tips:
- Set Up an IRS Online Account: Access your tax records, view Forms W-2 and certain 1099s, make payments, and get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) to prevent fraud.
- Gather Your Documents: Collect all necessary forms, including W-2s (due from employers by February 2, 2026), 1099s for freelance or investment income, and records for deductions like charitable contributions or medical expenses.
- Organize Records Early: Report all income sources, such as gig economy earnings, digital assets, or unemployment compensation, to ensure accuracy and claim eligible credits.
- Consider Electronic Filing: E-filing is faster and more secure. The IRS phases out paper refund checks starting in 2025, so opt for direct deposit for quicker refunds.
By preparing early, you can file as soon as the season opens and potentially receive your refund sooner.
2026 Tax Refund Calendar: When Will You Get Your Refund?
Once your return is accepted, the IRS aims to issue most refunds within 21 days via direct deposit. However, claims for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) may be delayed until mid-February or later for verification. Here’s an estimated refund calendar based on when your e-filed return is accepted:
| IRS Accepts Return By | Expected Direct Deposit Refund Date |
|---|---|
| January 26, 2026 | February 6, 2026 |
| February 2 | February 13 |
| February 9 | February 20 |
| February 16 | February 27 |
| February 23 | March 6 |
| March 2 | March 13 |
| March 9 | March 20 |
| March 16 | March 27 |
| March 23 | April 3 |
| March 30 | April 10 |
| April 6 | April 17 |
| April 13 | April 24 |
Note: Filing during peak times (late March to April 15) may add slight delays, and paper-filed returns take longer. The tax deadline for most filers is April 15, 2026, but you can request an extension to October 15, 2026 (though any taxes owed are still due by April 15).
Final Thoughts on the 2026 Tax Season
The 2026 tax season for 2025 returns is poised to start around January 26, but stay tuned for the official IRS announcement. By using trusted sources like IRS.gov and preparing in advance, you can make filing smoother and maximize your refund. If you have complex taxes, consider consulting a professional. For the latest updates, visit the IRS website or sign up for their newsletters.
Remember, tax laws can change, so double-check for any 2025-specific updates that might affect your return. Happy filing!